National Dog Day on August 26 celebrates all dogs, mixed breed and purebred. The day helps recognize the number of dogs that need to be rescued each year and acknowledges family dogs and dogs that work selflessly to save lives, keep us safe and bring comfort.

Since the first celebration in 2004, created by Colleen Paige, the holiday has grown and is now celebrated across the world. “The date of August 26 is significant, as it’s the date that Colleen’s family adopted her first dog “Sheltie” from the local animal shelter, when Colleen was 10 years old” (National Dog Day) .

According to Wikipedia, the dog is a descendent of ancient, extinct wolves, and the modern grey wolf is the dog’s nearest living relative. They are domesticated mammals, not natural wild animals. They have been bred by humans for a long time, and were the first animals ever to be domesticated.

Dogs are pets that become family. Many people have chosen to keep one of the most common popular pets around the world as their own. As the saying goes, “A dog is a man’s best friend.” Dogs grow an attachment to those in care of them. It has been said that having them as pets decreases loneliness bringing with them joy, loyalty, and devotion.

To participate in National Dog Day you can

• Consider adoption from Solano SPCA or Solano County Animal Care
• Recommend adoption to those around you
• Volunteer at one of the local shelters if you are over 18
• Donate to organizations or local shelters
• Post your dog on the media and show appreciation
• Treat your dog out with their favorite foods and places